May 1, 2009

Dear Parents,

As you probably know, the swine flu virus is making people sick in several states. As of today, there have been 2 confirmed cases in Massachusetts, but none here on the Vineyard.  The Martha’s Vineyard Public Schools understands that many people are worried, and we hope this letter will help address your concerns.  

At this time, the state and local health departments have advised us that students can continue to come to school, as long as they are not sick and do not have flu symptoms.  Flu-like symptoms include: fever (over 100° F), feverishness, cough, sore throat, runny nose, or stuffy nose.  Additional symptoms may be experienced with swine flu, including muscle pain, fatigue, and sometimes vomiting or diarrhea.  Information sheets in both English and Portuguese developed by The Centers for Disease Control are available at all schools and the Superintendent’s Office in Vineyard Haven.

Flu spreads easily.  If you think your child is getting the flu, it is very important that he/she does not go to school or other places where they might make other people sick, such as group childcare, after school programs, or sporting events. 

It is also important to teach your children how to reduce their risk of getting the flu and how to protect others from becoming infected.  

Teach your children to wash their hands often.  Washing with soap and hot water for at least 20 seconds is ideal (that is about as long as it takes to sing the “Happy Birthday” song twice).

Teach your children the proper use of hand sanitizer. Gels, rubs, and hand wipes all work well, as long as they contain at least 60% alcohol.  Hand wipes must be disposed of properly.  

Teach your children to cough or sneeze into your sleeve—not their hands!  Cover coughs and sneezes with tissues or by coughing into the inside of their elbow.  They should wash their hands after blowing their nose or coughing into a tissue.

Teach your children to avoid touching their nose, mouth or eyes. They should keep their hands away from their face. 

If we all practice good hygiene, health officials believe we can limit the spread of swine flu in our schools and child care centers. 

The current situation does not warrant school closure.  MVPS nurses and administrators as well as state and local health officials are closely monitoring the situation, and we will inform parents immediately if the situation changes and one of our schools must be closed. However, it is important to plan ahead.  Have a family discussion now to decide who would care for your child if his/her school were closed.   

Thank you for your cooperation in keeping our children and our schools healthy and feel free to contact your school principal or nurse if you have questions or concerns.

Sincerely,

James H. Weiss, EdD

Superintendent of Schools